The TSA also allow nail clippers to be packed in your checked bags.
However, they state that “any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.”
Packing the nail clippers in your toiletries bag will be good enough.
Domestic vs. International Flights
The TSA only has authority in the USA, so you might be wondering if the regulations for bringing nail clippers vary on a plane worldwide.
In fact, they do.
While there will be no problem packing your nail clippers in both your carry on and checked bags in Canada, the UK, Mexico, Australia, and worldwide, you need to be careful when flying from and within other destinations.
In Asia, AirAsia, China Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines all state that nail clippers are only allowed to be packed in your checked bags and not in your carry on.
In Latin America, LATAM Airlines Group, which is the largest airline group in that part of the world, do not allow passengers to pack nail clippers in their carry on.
Airline Regulations
Airlines follow TSA regulations.
So, this means that regardless if you’re flying with Delta, United, Southwest, American Airlines, or any other regional or major air carrier, you will be fine to bring nail clippers on a plane in both your carry on and checked bags.
The Type of Nail Clipper Doesn’t Matter
There are several types of nail clippers, including:
Guillotine Clippers
Lever-Type Clippers
Nipper Clippers
Electric Nail Clippers
According to the TSA, you can pack any type of nail clippers in both your carry on and checked bags.
How to Pack Nail Clippers for Flying
The TSA state that if packed in your checked bags, “any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.”
While not required, it can be a good idea to place your nail clippers in a manicure kit or case.
Placing the nail clippers in your toiletries bag will also be fine.
If you want to bring your nail clippers on a plane in your carry on, there are no special packing regulations you have to follow.
Avoid Using Nail Clippers on a Plane
Airlines generally don’t have any specific regulations banning passengers from using nail clippers on a plane.
However, if you are seen clipping your nails in your seat, you will likely be asked by a flight attendant to stop for the comfort of other passengers onboard.
If you really need to cut your nails on the flight, just go to the bathroom to do it.
You Can Bring Nail Scissors
The TSA state that you can bring scissors on a plane in your carry on bag as long as the blade is shorter than 4 inches.
Considering that nail scissors generally have much shorter blades, you will be fine to bring them on a plane in your carry on bags.
One thing to keep in mind is that these regulations change internationally.
If traveling from international airports in the UK, EU, and Canada, scissors having a permitted blade length of 6 cm (2.36 inches) when packed in your carry on
As Well as Nail Files
The TSA allow passengers to pack nail files in both their carry on and checked bags, regardless of what material the nail file is made of, including metal.
Other Nail Care Items
Cuticle Pusher: Yes, in both your carry on and checked bags
Nail Brush: Yes, in both your carry on and checked bags
Nail Buffer: Yes, in both your carry on and checked bags
Nail Polish: Yes in both your carry on (if less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml) and checked bags
Nail Polish Remover: Yes in both your carry on (if less than or equal to 3.4oz/100 ml) and checked bags
Tweezers: Yes, in both your carry on and checked bags
Ella Dunham, a Freelance Travel Journalist and Marketing Manager, boasts an impressive career spanning eight years in the travel and tourism sectors.
Honored as one of "30 Under 30" by TTG Media (the world’s very first weekly travel trade newspaper), a "Tour Operator Travel Guru" and "Legend Award" winner, Ella is also a Fellow of the Institute of Travel, a Member of the Association of Women Travel Executives, has completed over 250 travel modules, and hosts travel-focused segments on national radio shows where she provides insights on travel regulations and destinations.
Ella has visited over 40 countries (with 10 more planned this year).
